Montreal’s food scene proves you don’t need to break the bank to eat incredibly well. From steaming bowls of hand-pulled noodles in Chinatown to legendary bagels that have been perfecting their craft for decades, the city offers an impressive array of budget-friendly gems. Whether you’re craving authentic Thai cuisine, fresh-baked pastries, or Montreal’s iconic poutine, these wallet-friendly spots deliver exceptional flavors without the hefty price tag. We’ve scoured the city to find restaurants where most meals clock in under $20, but the quality rivals much pricier establishments. These aren’t just cheap eats – they’re destinations where locals line up daily for good reason.
Quick Comparison
| Restaurant | Rating | Price | Best For | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Boulangerie Cheskie | 4.5 | $ | Fresh Pastries |
 | Paulo & Suzanne | 4.4 | $$ | Classic Diner |
 | Mandy’s | 4.4 | $$ | Healthy Bowls |
 | Nouilles de Lan Zhou | 4.3 | $$ | Hand-Pulled Noodles |
 | larrys | 4.3 | $$ | Weekend Brunch |
The Complete List
For a deeper dive, here are the full profiles, insider tips, and signature dishes for all 10 of Montreal’s best budget friendly restaurants.
Nouilles de Lan Zhou
This authentic Chinese noodle house serves some of the most satisfying and affordable bowls in the city. Their hand-pulled noodles are made fresh throughout the day, creating the perfect chewy texture that pairs beautifully with rich, aromatic broths.
Boulangerie Cheskie
This Mile End bakery delivers exceptional European-style baked goods at prices that won’t hurt your wallet. Their Chocolate Babka is legendary among locals, with layers of rich chocolate swirled through tender, buttery dough.
Pizzeria Bros
Located in Old Montreal, this pizzeria offers quality pies at reasonable prices in one of the city’s most touristy areas. Their commitment to fresh ingredients and proper technique makes each slice worth savoring.
Fairmount Bagel
A Montreal institution since 1919, Fairmount Bagel represents the city’s unique bagel tradition at incredibly affordable prices. Their wood-fired ovens run 24/7, ensuring you can always get fresh, warm bagels straight from the source.
ChuChai
This vegetarian Thai restaurant on Saint-Denis proves that plant-based dining can be both affordable and incredibly flavorful. Their creative use of mock meats and authentic Thai seasonings creates dishes that satisfy even dedicated carnivores.
Paulo & Suzanne
This classic diner in Pierrefonds serves up hearty comfort food portions at prices that feel like a throwback to simpler times. Their Poutine and Burgers represent Montreal diner culture at its most authentic and affordable.
Mandy’s
This health-focused spot proves that eating well doesn’t have to be expensive. Their creative approach to salads, soups, and healthy bowls makes nutritious eating both affordable and genuinely satisfying.
Pushap
This authentic Indian restaurant in Montreal North offers some of the city’s most affordable and flavorful Indian cuisine. Their generous portions and authentic spice blends make every dish a genuine bargain.
larrys
This Mile End spot combines the casual atmosphere of a neighborhood bar with a surprisingly good brunch menu at reasonable prices. Their creative takes on breakfast classics make it a standout in Montreal’s competitive brunch scene.
La Banquise
No budget-friendly Montreal list would be complete without the city’s most famous poutinerie. Open 24/7, La Banquise offers over 30 varieties of poutine, making it both a cultural institution and an affordable late-night destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Based on our research, Boulangerie Cheskie tops our list with exceptional European-style pastries at unbeatable prices. Their chocolate babka alone is worth the visit, and most items are under $10.
For the most affordable options, head to Pushap for authentic Indian cuisine or Boulangerie Cheskie for fresh pastries. Both offer excellent meals under $15. Chinatown’s Nouilles de Lan Zhou also provides incredible value with their hand-pulled noodle soups.
For celebrations on a budget, ChuChai offers an elevated vegetarian Thai dining experience, while La Banquise provides a quintessentially Montreal experience that visitors will remember. Both deliver memorable meals without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts
Montreal’s budget-friendly dining scene proves that great food doesn’t require a hefty price tag. From authentic ethnic cuisines to local institutions, these 10 restaurants offer exceptional value and unforgettable flavors that define the city’s accessible food culture.